It was Ponce de Leon, the Spanish explorer in search of the eternal Fountain of Youth who first came to where a large natural harbor of water existed off Florida’s Gulf of Mexico coast.
His 1513 arrival to what is now Charlotte Harbor was not received well by the local Calusa Indians, so Ponce after suffering an arrow wound to the thigh bid a hasty adios and retreated to Cuba.
The mood had not become much more hospitable two decades later when another conquistador, Hernando De Soto, arrived to once more try and establish a colony.
The Spaniards’ time in Paradise might have been limited but the name they gave to the area Punta Gorda (Broad Point)
Now as the only incorporated city in Charlotte County – Punta Gorda offers her visitors a taste of old Florida where gentle breezes stir palm, fronds along the Esplanade of the Peace River, flip flops are normal feet attire and townspeople say “hello” to strangers.
August 2004 changed Punta Gorda forever when Hurricane Charley suddenly changed course and turned into Charlotte Harbor and not the predicted Tampa Bay. Like any grande dame Punta Gorda shed her tears, then straightened up put on some lipstick and set out to come back even stronger.
Downtown shopping, dining and first class pampering treatments, like those at the River Club and Biscous at the Spa can be found on streets named Marion, Olympia, Taylor and Virginia which crisscross the bisecting north and south bound lanes of Route 41.
Should you feel like more shopping opportunities either drive or take the free trolley over to Fisherman’s Village where a plethora of restaurants and boutiques await – sure to find the perfect sundress or souvenir. Wait until sunset and walk the yacht basin for stunning sunset views.
Thursday evenings brings bluegrass to Gilcrest Park as area aficionados gathered in small groups set the sweet melodies of mandolins, banjos and dulcimers into the night sky. Happening for over a decade can attend. Bring a beach chair and a sense of fun.
In a city where luscious locations abound it is no wonder Punta Gorda has a thriving arts community, and on the third Thursday of the month gallery walks offer the best in entertainment and visual arts.
Traverse the historic area with half century plus old houses along paved brick streets, which remain walk able even on the hottest summer day thanks to the water’s nearby proximity. Verandas and lush gardens are the norm here.
A late spring favorite special event is about to bloom soon.
June 15 – 16th is the 4th Annual Punta Gorda National Hibiscus Festival.
Filled with music, bicycle and trolley tours, farmer’s and seafood markets and a stunning array of private gardens – the festival also allows you to purchase your own plants and begin a landmark garden of your own.
Punta Gorda is a definate survivor with style!
For more information see:www.puntagordahibiscousfestival,com
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